History of IWD
International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th-century labor movements in North America and Europe. The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909. The following year, the Socialist International established a Women's Day to honor the movement for women's rights and to build support for achieving universal suffrage for women. The date of March 8 was formalized in the following years and was officially adopted by the United Nations in 1975.
How International Women's Day is Celebrated
Celebrations around the world vary from country to country. In some places, it is a day of protest; in others, it is a day that celebrates womanhood. Common activities include:
- Events and Conferences: Organizations, governments, and educational institutions host talks, conferences, and networking events focused on women's empowerment and gender equality.
- Community Gatherings: Rallies, marches, and festivals are held to raise awareness and celebrate women's achievements.
- Personal Acknowledgement: Many people use the day to show appreciation for the women in their lives through gifts, messages, and social media posts.
- Corporate Initiatives: Companies often run campaigns and internal events to support female employees and highlight their commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Theme for 2025
Each year, International Women's Day has an official theme. While the theme for 2025 has not yet been announced, it will build on the ongoing global effort to #InspireInclusion and accelerate progress towards a gender-equal world.